Jorge passed away at a medical clinic in the Argentinian city of Rosario after a long but undisclosed illness.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Jorge Messi, father of Argentina captain and Barcelona icon Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68.
His death was announced on Saturday by Argentinian Primera División club Newell’s Old Boys via a social media post.
According to the family, Jorge died at a medical clinic in the Argentinian city of Rosario after a long illness.
He spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children, Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
Confirming his death, Newell’s Old Boys said he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness.
They described him as “the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigour and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini”.
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The Argentinian FA also expressed its condolences in a statement, saying: “From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm, and affectionate embrace. Strength to you all.”
At the World Cup, Lionel Messi said after Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria – when he broke down in tears while celebrating his first goal in the team’s opening match – that he was going through a difficult personal situation.
Later, he explained his tears were due to “something unrelated to football” after going through “a few difficult, complicated days”.
There was speculation that the player’s emotional reaction to Argentina’s last-16 victory over Egypt was due in part to his father’s deteriorating condition.
A few days later, the family issued a statement regarding Jorge Messi’s “health situation”, informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.
